What is the difference between "建つ" and "経つ"?

"建つ" means "to be built, to be erected (intransitive)" (N4), whereas "経つ" represents "to pass (of time)" (N3).

Kanji Homophone Battle

Pronunciation Trap: "たつ (tatsu)"

Same sound, completely different Kanji! Choose the right conceptual writing.

Kanji Option A

たつ (tatsu)

N4 / CEFR

Kanji Option B

たつ (tatsu)

N3 / CEFR

In Japanese, many words share the exact same pronunciation "たつ (tatsu)" but are written with different Kanji, changing the meaning entirely.

建つ (Level: N4): Translates to "to be built, to be erected (intransitive)" and is used when Indicates that a building, monument, etc., has been constructed or is in a standing state. The focus is on the object itself..
経つ (Level: N3): Maps to "to pass (of time)" and carries the nuance of 時間が「経過する」ことを表す自動詞です。特定の時点からどれくらいの時間が経過したかを述べるときに用いられます。/ An intransitive verb indicating that time 'passes'. Used to state how much time has passed since a specific point..

Mixing these up can easily result in unnatural writing. Look at the bilingual context cards below to master the conceptual boundaries!

Bilingual Context for "建つ"

この公園の隣に新しい図書館が建ちました。

A new library was built next to this park.

Bilingual Context for "経つ"

日本に来てからもう5年が経った。

It has already been 5 years since I came to Japan.

Which Kanji perfectly fits this blank space?

Which Kanji perfectly fits the blank: "この公園の隣に新しい図書館が建ちました。" (Meaning: "A new library was built next to this park.")

🎉 Correct Answer!

Correct! "建つ" is used for "to be built, to be erected (intransitive)" in the context: "A new library was built next to this park.".